Goliath Opening Delayed, Construction Ongoing

Today was supposed to be the day that media and coaster fanatics from around the country gathered at Six Flags Great America to ride Goliath, the world’s tallest, fastest and steepest wooden roller coaster.

Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. The park released a statement that they were still putting the “finishing touches” on the coaster. No official date has been released for the coaster’s new media date or public opening.

However, the park did celebrate today — its 38th birthday. The park first opened to guests on May 29, 1976.

I stopped by the park after work to celebrate the park’s big day and, more importantly, to see how Goliath was coming along.

In case you’re unfamiliar with the park’s layout, the coaster’s 85-degree drop is best viewed from the Camp Cartoon area of the park.

Back on the ground, a canopy has been installed over the main queue area.

It’s difficult to see in this picture, but a train was being installed on the transfer track (which uses a vertical, elevator-like transfer system as opposed to the traditional horizontal sliding transfer).

The construction site is full of different-sized cranes. You can’t say crews aren’t working hard to get this thing finished.

The over-banked turn side of the layout seemed quiet. Perhaps all of the work in that area is complete.

A few sections of track are still awaiting grout and the orange-red topper track.

But aside from all the construction equipment, the coaster is looking very impressive and, for the most part, complete.

This has to be somewhat nerve-wracking, even for a seasoned professional.

Several workers were focused on the zero-g stall.

Again, this is a coaster that you have to see in person to truly appreciate. Pictures just don’t do it justice.

I can’t wait to see a train full of riders cresting the top of the lift hill.

Speaking of trains — I spy a Goliath car!

The lift-hill railings are complete.

I’m really glad that the park spared so many of the trees around the Goliath site. Although they slightly obstruct views of the coaster, they make the coaster look even more gorgeous (and provide much-needed shade).

I stopped by the Thrill Seekers gift shop to check out the Goliath gear for sale.

These artsy, retro-style Goliath prints would look great on your coaster wall (if you have one).

Goliath riders will exit through the gift shop and will be able to view and purchase their on-ride photos.

In case you were unaware, the Goliath Midnight Premiere scheduled for June 1st has been cancelled. Email guestrelations_sfgam[at]sixflags.com for more information.

Hopefully testing will begin soon. We’ll be back at the park this weekend to bring you another update. Keep your fingers crossed that construction is able to wrap up soon.